Abdominal pain: what do antidepressants have to do with it?
Abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons to see a doctor. Sometimes it’s short-lived, linked to food or infection, and goes away on its own or with simple treatment. But what if a month, six months, or even a year has passed — and the discomfort is still your constant companion?
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder: the digestive organs are structurally healthy, but they don’t function properly.
The diagnosis is based on the Rome IV criteria:
- Abdominal pain at least once a week in the past 3 months
- Associated with defecation
- Associated with a change in stool frequency
- Associated with a change in stool form (see the Bristol Stool Chart)
Importantly, other diseases must be excluded, especially “red flags” such as:
- blood in stool
- unexplained weight loss
- anemia
- fever or signs of inflammation
- onset of symptoms after age 50
- family history of bowel cancer or inflammatory bowel disease
Why does this happen?
IBS has no single cause. A key mechanism is the “gut–brain axis”: miscommunication between the nervous system and the intestines. As a result, normal processes (eating, stress) trigger pain, spasms, or stool changes.
Other factors also matter:
- diet (the low FODMAP diet helps identify personal trigger foods)
- stress, poor sleep, fatigue
- lack of physical activity
- mental health conditions
How is it treated?
Treatment is always comprehensive:
- improving sleep and exercise habits
- psychotherapy and stress management
- dietary adjustments (low FODMAP)
- use of neuromodulators
Neuromodulators — often referred to as “antidepressants” — are widely used in IBS. Their effect is not limited to depression: they regulate the nervous system and reduce intestinal sensitivity to pain. These medicines are prescribed only under medical supervision, and their effect builds up gradually over time.
Key point
There are many myths around antidepressants. Always discuss your concerns with your doctor. Modern medicine aims not only to help you live longer, but also to make those years more comfortable.
You don’t need to live with pain. At A CLINIC, we help you find the cause of your discomfort and improve your quality of life.